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We are now accepting mentor applications for the 2018-2019 school year. Apply today to begin your mentoring journey!

What is special about children of incarcerated parents?

The Seedling Mentor Program was launched in 2006 when a group of school principals expressed concern about the growing number of children in their schools affected by the incarceration of one or both of their parents.

These children face the same risks as any child who lives in a home where parental involvement and other resources are limited. However, their risk of social and emotional issues is increased due to little or no contact with the parent and confusing messages about the incarceration.

Embarrassment, anger, guilt, and shame are often experienced by these children. In fact, parental incarceration is now recognized as an adverse childhood experience (ACE). A child’s risk of health, emotional and social problems increases along with the types or incidents of trauma that he experiences The ACE study shows a direct link between childhood trauma or unrelenting stress and:

Some children of incarcerated parents who are experiencing the effects of stigma, shame and trauma can benefit greatly from having a mentor, a caring adult friend who can support the child in developing resilience.

The links below answer the following questions in a downloadable PDF that you are welcome to print out for your personal use.